Dress code cocktail for women. What distinguishes the cocktail dress code (Cocktail) for men

Cocktail events usually start between 4-5pm and 8pm. These events are much more casual than afternoon business lunches, but not as solemn as evening receptions and celebrations. The most common formats for such events are cocktails, presentations, exhibitions, openings, etc. Often, event organizers send out invitations that indicate one or another dress code - a requirement for appearance. Let's figure out how you need to look if the invitation indicates dress code Cocktail


What do we have to do?

  • Sleeves can be either short or long. As for the neckline, it is not forbidden in the evening, but still you should know the measure, it should be too deep and frank
  • Moderate flounces, frills, fringes are allowed as an additional decor.
  • The fabrics from which cocktail dresses can be made are quite sophisticated and varied. Embroidery with glass beads or sequins may appear. Lace and guipure are also suitable for decoration, but they cannot be the main material! The same applies to transparent fabrics - organza, chiffon - they are only partially acceptable.
  • Best suited to the image of a black cocktail dress with no big amount exquisitely selected expensive accessories
  • It will also be very interesting to look at such complex color combinations like lilac with green, blue with lemon, mustard with brown
  • A variety of jewelry is acceptable in the form of several strings of beads, large pendants, large ruts and earrings - but you do not need to wear everything at once
  • The best option for a bag - a clutch or a small decorative handbag. Shoes - sandals, shoes, and ankle boots are acceptable - it all depends on the season.
  • The head must be neat. You can use a variety of decorative hairpins and hair ornaments.


What NOT to do?

  • Don't think that a cocktail dress can be short! A cocktail is not like going to a disco. Length should be around knees
  • High cuts are also not recommended, except for walking vents
  • The maxi length is not used, it will interfere with free movement, especially if the skirt is fluffy or flared
  • There is no need for overly extravagant cut elements, such as puff sleeves or huge collars.
  • In winter, it is not allowed to wear a cocktail dress on thin spaghetti straps or without them at all
  • Deep necklines and open cuts on the back should be abandoned.
  • Inappropriate completely transparent dress, under which you can see the underwear
  • With makeup, special zeal is not needed. It is enough to strengthen it by a tone or two, or change the light color of lipstick to burgundy. No other special effects needed
  • Since a cocktail is an event held on the border between day and evening, it is better to use the brightest and most catchy colors only as a decoration, not as a main color.
  • Items such as corsets and corsages are also best avoided.
  • A cocktail dress in bright red or orange or turquoise is overkill. Also inappropriate is a white dress, such an outfit will evoke associations with a wedding or beachwear.
  • It is strictly forbidden to dress in a white blouse and a black or blue skirt - you will be mistaken for a waitress.
  • It is also worth noting that you do not need to wear jewelry with “headsets”, these are things of bygone days.
  • Hairstyle and make-up - in no case should there be high and pompous styling.


Interesting Facts

  • Cocktail events, as a rule, are held in a free communicative form. Most often they are organized on the principle of a buffet. Everything is conducive to the fact that everyone moved and calmly communicated with each other. The presence of light alcohol in itself implies a freer form of communication, and as a result, a freer form of clothing.
  • The cocktail event usually starts between 16-17 hours and 20
  • These events are much more relaxed than afternoon business lunches, but not as solemn as evening receptions and celebrations.
  • The most common formats for such events are cocktails, presentations, exhibitions, openings, etc.

Compliance with the dress code for men is no less important than for ladies. The ability to dress properly and choose the style that matches the event largely characterizes a man and determines the success of his communication.

Cocktail for men is a special dress code that allows some variations in the selection of clothes. The most important requirement is the correct combination of colors.

This dress code is applicable for the following types of events:

  • corporate celebration;
  • a family holiday organized indoors with a large number of guests;
  • presentation;
  • going to the theatre.

For such events, a number of requirements must be met.

  1. Dark, but not black suit. For evening receptions, dark gray or blue is suitable. Suit can be worn for daytime activities gray color.
  2. Classic pants.
  3. Black or White shirt with long sleeve.
  4. Black or brown shoes.

Cocktail Attire clothing does not include vests. It is worn for more solemn occasions.

There are several requirements regarding accessories.

Tie

A tie is optional for a Cocktail Attire set. It is not worn for corporate events, but it is recommended to wear it for a wedding. It is chosen based on certain requirements.

  1. Neutral color.
  2. Geometric pattern.
  3. One or more shades of the pattern must be present on one of the parts of the kit.

A bow tie is acceptable in bright colors and only for young people whose age does not exceed 30 years.

Belt

For such events, you must choose a belt that:

  • matches the color of the shoes;
  • has a buckle made in a neutral style, without decorations.

Cufflinks and watches on a leather strap or metal bracelet are acceptable as accessories.

"Black tie" is a formal style. This dress code is required for formal celebrations after 5 pm.

Such activities include:

  • dinner parties;
  • weddings;
  • award ceremonies.

The standard attire for this dress code consists of:

  • black tuxedo;
  • black trousers;
  • black vest;
  • belts;
  • white shirt;
  • dark socks;
  • matte black shoes.

Modern requirements allow for a given style to be chosen dark blue tones. A vest is required only if the tuxedo has one button.

The cummerbund is put on so that the folds look up. According to modern requirements, this belt can not be worn. In this case, black suspenders are required.

Pants must be the same fabric as the tuxedo. They must be sewn with stripes from the same fabric as the lapels of the tuxedo.

If the choice is made in favor of a velvet jacket, then the trousers are selected to match.

A silk or cotton shirt is preferred, with white or black mother-of-pearl buttons. For a shirt, in this case, cufflinks made of precious metal are required.

Tie

For events of this kind, a must-have butterfly made of matte fabric to match the jacket.

Accessories

Mandatory accessories in the form of:

  • white pocket square;
  • silk scarf, which is allowed not to be worn in the warm season;
  • watch.

For weddings, a boutonniere is considered an obligatory accessory, which is inserted into the buttonhole of a tuxedo.

There are several varieties of formal dress, one of which is the Creative "Black Tie". This is a variant of the dress code that allows for creativity in the choice of clothing. He practices at events such as the Oscars.

According to the rules, you can:

  • wear a black shirt instead of a white one;
  • replace the bow tie with a classic tie;
  • choose an extravagant accessory for the set.

The "Black tie invited" form suggests less formality.

It is required for events such as:

  • major business meetings;
  • public meetings.

A man has the right to choose between a tuxedo or a jacket. For such events, the absence of a pocket handkerchief is allowed.

Black Tie Semi-formal is the loosest of all formal styles.

It is required for:

  • trips to expensive restaurants in connection with solemn events;
  • visiting theatrical premieres.

The dress code does not include a tuxedo. The color of the costume depends on the time for which the celebration is scheduled.

  1. After 6 pm - dark suit.
  2. Until 6 pm - a suit of lighter colors.

White Tie is a dress code that is required at the most solemn meetings. The choice of color for each part of the kit is very important.

This style is required for events like:

  • a party at the embassy;
  • meetings with heads of state;
  • audiences with kings;
  • awarding the Nobel Prize.

There are several required items included in the outfit.

  1. Black or dark blue coat.
  2. White shirt, the sleeves of which extend a centimeter beyond the sleeves of the tailcoat.
  3. White vest buttoned up. It is allowed to choose a cream or milky vest.
  4. Pants without a belt. Silk suspenders are allowed.
  5. Black shoes.

The following accessories are required for this dress code:

  • a white bow tie in the same fabric as the vest;
  • cufflinks are not made of gold, but of white precious metal;
  • white scarf;
  • black silk socks;
  • black cylinder;
  • white silk scarf with fringes.

Wrist watch prohibited for White Tie style. Only a pocket watch on a chain is allowed for him.

Business best style is required for events such as How:

  • serious business meetings with business partners;
  • company presentations;
  • conferences and symposia.

The set for such events includes:

  • dark suit, preferably dark blue;
  • white shirt with long sleeves;
  • classic black matte shoes;
  • burgundy tie;
  • black socks;
  • cufflinks.

Previously, this style required the suit to be exclusively of blue color, but others are now allowed dark shades. There is even a choice of combined suits.

This is a style of clothing that involves business meetings with business partners during the working day.

For this dress code, a large variability of each of the parts of the kit is acceptable.

  1. Jackets. Jackets made of tweed, wool, velveteen are allowed. Colors of dull shades.
  2. shirts. Shirts are selected with long sleeves, shades of blue. A small checkered or striped pattern is allowed.
  3. Trousers. Trousers are chosen in a loose fit, made of cotton or mixed fabric in dark blue, sand, mustard or brown.
  4. Shoes. Both classic shoes and moccasins are suitable for this style.

For this dress code, it is possible to replace the jacket with a wool cardigan. You can also combine the jacket with plain jumpers.

After Five's dress code is for ceremonial events that take place between 5 and 8 p.m.

It can be:

  • club parties;
  • friendly meetings.

Even though the events take place in the evening, some freedom in the choice of clothing is allowed.

The kit includes:

  • business style suit;
  • shirt of any style;
  • tie;
  • closed shoes.

For such events, you can choose clothes of any suitable colors. A tie is not a requirement. The color and style of shoes is not regulated, the main thing is that it should be closed.

After 5 Casual is the freest evening style. He does not assume strict rules and requirements. It is suitable for parties, dates, meetings in a cafe.

For this style, you can combine:

  • classic trousers and jumper;
  • jeans and a shirt;
  • loose-fitting trousers and a cardigan.

For such kits, colors are not regulated. Shoes are selected in any style, closed type. Accessories such as a tie, watch or cufflinks are not essential.

Smart Casual is a dress code with very flexible requirements. It is appropriate for office work, business lunches with partners, everyday business meetings.

The kit may include:

  • jacket in soothing shades of tweed, wool or velveteen;
  • a shirt of any shades, it is possible with a medium-sized pattern;
  • loose-fitting trousers without arrows or jeans;
  • loafers or moccasins.

This style is so democratic that it allows changing trousers for shorts in hot weather and changing a shirt for a sweater in cold weather.

There are no required accessories in this style. Bettors choosing a tie should pay attention to knitted patterns. The belt is usually matched to the color of the shoes.

The choice of dress code depends on the type of event and on the time of day when it is organized.

Cocktail events usually start between 4-5pm and 8pm. These events are much more casual than afternoon business lunches, but not as solemn as evening receptions and celebrations. The most common formats for such events are cocktails, presentations, exhibitions, openings, etc. Often, event organizers send out invitations that indicate one or another dress code - a requirement for appearance. Let's figure out how you need to look if the cocktail dress code is indicated on the invitation

What do we have to do?

Sleeves can be either short or long. As for the neckline, it is not forbidden in the evening, but still you should know the measure, it should be too deep and frank
Moderate flounces, frills, fringes are allowed as an additional decor.
The fabrics from which cocktail dresses can be made are quite sophisticated and varied. Embroidery with glass beads or sequins may appear. Lace and guipure are also suitable for decoration, but they cannot be the main material! The same applies to transparent fabrics - organza, chiffon - they are only partially acceptable.
Best paired with a black cocktail dress with a few finely-chosen expensive accessories.
Complex color combinations such as lilac with green, blue with lemon, mustard with brown will also look very interesting.
A variety of jewelry is acceptable in the form of several strings of beads, large pendants, large ruts and earrings - but you do not need to wear everything at once
The best option for a bag is a clutch or a small decorative handbag. Shoes - sandals, shoes, and ankle boots are acceptable - it all depends on the season.
The head must be neat. You can use a variety of decorative hairpins and hair ornaments.

What NOT to do?

Don't think that a cocktail dress can be short! A cocktail is not like going to a disco. Length should be around knees
High cuts are also not recommended, except for walking vents
The maxi length is not used, it will interfere with free movement, especially if the skirt is fluffy or flared
There is no need for overly extravagant cut elements, such as puff sleeves or huge collars.
In winter, it is not allowed to wear a cocktail dress with thin spaghetti straps or no straps at all.
Deep necklines and open cuts on the back should be abandoned.
Inappropriate completely transparent dress, under which you can see the underwear
With makeup, special zeal is not needed. It is enough to strengthen it by a tone or two, or change the light color of lipstick to burgundy. No other special effects needed
Since a cocktail is an event held on the border between day and evening, it is better to use the brightest and most catchy colors only as a decoration, not as a main color.
Items such as corsets and corsages are also best avoided.
A cocktail dress in bright red or orange or turquoise is overkill. Also inappropriate is a white dress, such an outfit will evoke associations with a wedding or beachwear.
It is strictly forbidden to dress in a white blouse and a black or blue skirt - you will be mistaken for a waitress.
It is also worth noting that you do not need to wear jewelry with “headsets”, these are things of bygone days.
Hairstyle and make-up - in no case should there be high and pompous styling.





Interesting Facts
Cocktail events, as a rule, are held in a free communicative form. Most often they are organized on the principle of a buffet. Everything is conducive to the fact that everyone moved and calmly communicated with each other. The presence of light alcohol in itself implies a freer form of communication, and as a result, a freer form of clothing.
The cocktail event usually starts between 16-17 hours and 20
These events are much more relaxed than afternoon business lunches, but not as solemn as evening receptions and celebrations.
The most common formats for such events are cocktails, presentations, exhibitions, openings, etc.

Dress code - these are certain requirements for the appearance of a person according to the theme of the event, they usually relate to clothes, shoes and accessories. Today, business etiquette has several types of dress codes for men, thanks to which it is possible to choose the right outfit for a particular event, look perfect and appropriate. For example, a dress code cocktail for men, which allows visitors to the celebration to freely choose outfits.

Of all the existing and current dress codes, the Cocktail is the freest option, since there are no strict requirements and limits for it. The main task facing a man is the correct and harmonious combination of clothes in terms of texture, color scheme and style load. Much depends on the event itself, its theme and specifics, which should also be taken into account when choosing a wardrobe.

Basic dress code rules depending on the type of event

To date, the cocktail dress code has become widespread throughout the world among women and men, it is used for various occasions in life, but more often at formal events.

If for a certain event a tailcoat is too dressy and a tuxedo is frilly, then you should dress up according to the cocktail dress code. The invitation to such an event will be labeled Coctail Attire, which is appropriate for several types of events.

Expert opinion

Helen Goldman

Male stylist-image maker

The cocktail dress code is most often practiced at events such as the opening of a book by a famous author, a dinner party in the company of high-ranking personalities, corporate banquets, family holidays with a large number of guests, the opening of a restaurant, gallery, etc., celebrations on the occasion of professional promotions that will be important for the future of the company.

Classic variant

In the classic version, this will be an evening dress code for an event that will be celebrated after 9 pm. A casual and comfortable set of clothes is acceptable here, that is, a familiar, but elegant version of a classic suit, with which it is allowed to wear expensive ones to emphasize one's social status and style. But it is better to refuse a tie, as it will introduce unnecessary officialdom into the event.

Do you like classic style?

YesNo

social event

If we are talking about any social event, it is worth dressing a little stricter than in the previous version. As a rule, a set for a man includes such items of clothing as a high-quality classic suit, a classic and formal shirt that matches perfectly with him, for example, a tie and cufflinks. You can complement the image with luxurious lacquer or leather shoes.

business party

In this case, an evening cocktail dress code can come in handy at negotiations in a restaurant with partners or contractors, respectively, a man faces the task of choosing a rather strict dress code for a cocktail. It can be a strict black suit that complies with business etiquette, options in navy blue and brown. The shirt can be either plain or pinstriped; be sure to complete the look with a tie and shoes in a classic design.

Basic elements of clothing

In fact, the cocktail dress code is considered the simplest in terms of choosing clothes; it will always be based on a dark-colored suit in a classic design. For a formal occasion, you can use a black suit, for an event at 17:00 you can wear a calm gray suit, and for a late time, a dark blue or dark gray suit is suitable.

Trousers at the suit should be with ironed arrows, a jacket is welcome in the same design. You can wear a vest to this outfit for a formal occasion. In addition, the degree of officiality of such cases and institutions will also affect the shade of a man's shirt, suit. According to the standard, the shirt can be black or white, the main thing is that it does not draw attention to itself.

Particular attention should be paid to looking presentable. If the shirt does not come with a tie, the top button on the shirt can be left unbuttoned. According to the dress code, it is forbidden to take off the jacket, in extreme cases, this is possible if the shirt has a long sleeve.

Shoes and accessories

According to the Cocktail dress code, a man should definitely pay attention to the choice of shoes and accessories for a general outfit. Classic derby shoes are ideal, but they should have a neat, not massive toe and a perfectly polished texture. The color of shoes can be black or brown, usually, according to business etiquette, shoes have something in common with trousers. An alternative to derby shoes can be oxfords in the same style.

Permitted accessories for a similar outfit for a man are a watch, a tie, a belt on trousers and cufflinks. As for the tie, it is worn only for business and social events, but for a corporate party, you can wear a more casual set of clothes without a tie. A tie with a neutral or geometric pattern would be ideal, but one of the patterns or patterns should be somewhere else in the outfit.

Particular attention should be paid to the belt, its color should match the color of the shoes, that is, be in the classic version. A neutral buckle is a must, it should not be conspicuous. Wristwatches can be either on a leather belt or on a metal bracelet. But a pocket square and a bow tie are the main contraindications to the dress code Cocktail.

Photo selection




Conclusion

When choosing an outfit for a particular event, a man will be helped by such a significant clue as a certain dress code. Thanks to this, you can safely choose a suit, shirt, accessories and shoes without worrying about whether it will be appropriate appearance and wardrobe of a man in a given society. A cocktail is the most relaxed version of the dress code for official events, social events and business meetings.

Cocktail events are predominantly held in restaurants and clubs. Dress code "Cocktail" for women implies a dress middle length and minimal embellishments.

Depending on what time the cocktail party is held, the clothes can be less or more elegant - the earlier the event, the less pretentiousness. Conversely, cocktail dresses after 9 p.m. should be more festive.

A cocktail is an evening social event, not too solemn and, as a rule, taking place until 20.00. Here, a light version of the semi-formal dress code is applied. Cocktail receptions are quite light, usually with drinks and a buffet, often with dancing.

This is a particularly popular form of reception with busy people, because its advantages are obvious: a cocktail has a less official status than a dinner, and hosts with a larger number of guests may not pay as much attention to everyone as at dinner.

And the guests have a great opportunity to chat and make new friends. At such a party, lightness and unobtrusiveness, light flirting and subtle humor are assumed. It is not at all necessary for a woman to come to a cocktail party accompanied by a man, and, accordingly, she can leave the party alone.

Evening cocktail dress 2018 (with photo)

The cocktail dress is the standard attire for occasions where long sleeves are not required. evening dress. It is for receptions that short colored dresses with sequins, feathers, lush draperies and huge bows at the back are suitable - in a word, the outfits are elegant, but not defiant and uncomfortable to sit in.

As you can see in the photo, cocktail dresses are mostly solid colored or sparkling:

Win-win option - small black dress. Don't put on a cocktail long dress and tight black tights. But an evening top with a skirt or trousers is quite acceptable.

A cocktail dress is a special poetic outfit of secular twilight, which will never be superfluous in the wardrobe. It is not evening and not daytime, but an intermediate option between them.

It can be used for several seasons for going out: parties, dates in a restaurant, weddings of friends. This dress always gives the impression of ease and looseness - the main thing is that it should be elegant, feminine, seductive.

If you don't know what to wear to a cocktail party, feel free to choose a sleeveless and collared dress with a moderate neckline. The permissible length of the Evening Cocktail dress is to the knees, not shorter, an option up to the middle of the calf is possible.

Basically, the length depends on how beautiful your knees are. An oblique hem visually increases height, in such a dress it is easier to look slim and fit.

When choosing a dress for a cocktail party, follow the unspoken rule: the more open at the top, the more closed at the bottom, and vice versa.

The fabric can be quite expensive, richly decorated. For simple silhouette it is better to choose a catchy fabric, otherwise you risk looking too strict. Color - absolutely any.

In summer, a cocktail dress is preferable to a more open one, made in light colors from light materials - silk, crepe de chine, chiffon. In winter, deeper shades of blue, purple, black and red are traditionally used.

Cocktail dresses 2018 are offered in an ensemble with a stole, a short jacket or a bolero, repeating one of the tones of the dress in color.

"Test Drive". It's not easy to put on a cocktail dress for the first time. If you are new to this, do some practice before the event. Put it on with your chosen shoes and walk around the house for half an hour or an hour.

It must be remembered that the right cocktail dress is the best tool of seduction. After all, a cocktail is also an opportunity to flirt, to make an unexpectedly pleasant acquaintance.

Let your hair fall to your shoulders in loose, careless curls, and your skin will be lit up with a natural blush. Hold your head up high and smile more often!

What to wear to a cocktail party: shoes and accessories

Shoes. Shoes for the Cocktail Party dress code should be dressy, light, open and sexy, with unusual trims and high heels. With colored dresses, shoes can be both colored and black. Under a metallic dress - gold or silver - cream shoes are most suitable.

Bag. A small handbag in the hands - an envelope or in the style of "Madame Pompadour".

Accessories are preferred the most sexy. They are very important, without them any outfit looks insipid. In order not to overdo it when choosing them, follow the rule: if the dress acts as a “support”, that is, it does not catch the eye, then one of the accessories can be a “star”.

And vice versa, if the dress plays the role of a “star”, then other accessories should not attract attention, just highlighting the main element of the look.

If a little black is chosen as a cocktail dress, the accessories must be colored.

As you can see in the photo, the Cocktail dress code requires you to wear thin tights or stockings:

Decorations. It is not necessary to wear jewelry, expensive jewelry is more appropriate. If you prefer Jewelry then choose rather discreet.

It is not recommended to wear a full set of jewelry: earrings, bracelets, necklaces and rings. Limit yourself to two things. Pay special attention to the cocktail ring, which will allow you to demonstrate your taste and personality. It is worn on the right hand.

Types of cocktail parties

A cocktail party today is one of the most popular forms of social life, due to the fact that the very atmosphere of free communication looks very attractive: guests are not at the set table, but are talking, drinking and eating while standing, moving freely around the hall.

Most often, a cocktail party is a pleasant continuation or an integral part of various conferences, festivals, competitions, presentations, etc. According to the rules, it lasts two hours and has its own rules.

There are two types of cocktail parties. They come to a cocktail at 7 pm the way they sat in the office - in trouser suits or closed dresses, but they always add a bright detail - large clip-on earrings or a colored silk square scarf.

Cocktail at 9 pm - over solemn event, and late cocktail dresses differ from evening dresses only in length. These dresses are elegant and moderately sexy, it's so easy to feel like a charming coquette in them!

However modern women manage to conduct business negotiations at these most frivolous parties. Of course, a serious woman is unlikely to wear a dress with a provocative neckline to a business cocktail, but choose one bright color would be quite appropriate.

The line between a late cocktail and a dinner party is pretty blurry. In the end, it is always more profitable for the organizers to call their event a “cocktail”: there is less pathos and less food. A cocktail is a great option for a party for communication and new acquaintances, not only business ones.




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